Chinle Cactus & Succulent Society

Field Trip Guidelines

Chinle C&S Society members organize and participate in a variety of field trips, both local and regional. Trip objectives mirror those of trips run by the Cactus & Succulent Society of America (CSSA) focusing on plants in native habitat, educating about natural environments, and reinforcing conservation ethics and practices. Chinle trips provide social mixing opportunities and exposure to locations with importance to other disciplines such as history, natural history and archaeology.

Minimizing the footprint of a group while safely accessing remote natural areas requires planning, organization and coordination. Our club maintains ground rules to help field trips run smoothly and effectively. Field trip participants must understand and agree to these guidelines.

Absolutely No Plant Collecting

Do not collect plants

Do not collect anything in national & state parks

Observe the “Chinle C&SS Conservation Policy”

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) aims to conserve and protect endangered and threatened plants and their habitats. The ESA prohibits collecting (including seeds), or otherwise disturbing, damaging or destroying any listed plant.

Tread Lightly & Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Look carefully before you step!

Step on rocks, bare ground, etc. to avoid damaging tiny plants

Be aware that there may be little plants other than the one that you, your eyes and the camera are focused on

Many plants are quite small & federally protected by the ESA from any kind of damage…

Carpooling is Strongly Encouraged

Daily schedules are tight – be considerate and on time

Have an ice chest in each vehicle

Baggage space is limited, pack lightly

Passengers should share expenses such as gas & entrance fees

Overnight Accommodations

Individuals are responsible for making their own accommodations

Be Safe and Aware

Parking will often be limited & immediately adjacent to main highways: pull off the roadway, bunch up & be safe